Newer technology in Vinyl Floors can provide a realistic look, easier maintenance, and a more affordable price than ceramic tile, laminate, or hardwood. There are hundreds of new patterns that have texture and finishes that are two-toned for depth and lustered and delustered both to make them very realistic looking. There are no real grout lines to seal and maintain, and they are much more resistant to moisture than real woods or laminates because they are available in solid vinyl sheets eliminating many seams or joints. Vinyl is much easier to clean by simply sweeping and mopping and is much more practical in bathrooms than other hard surfaces. The cost of a higher quality vinyl floor can be half of other flooring and last just as long.
Purchase your new vinyl flooring from a local reputable company that has longevity in the business and a reputation for being customer service oriented. They should have an experienced sales team that can help guide you in finding the right quality to meet your expectations. They should also provide free “in home shopping” and should field measure your floor for accuracy in ordering and installing your flooring. Smaller companies are fine as long as they have proven stability and experienced staff available.
The installation of your new vinyl floor covering is as critical as finding the right product. Make sure your installers are experienced in vinyl installation and not just a handy man that has laid some vinyl before. Make sure you purchase the labor through the company you are getting the flooring from, and that they provide at least a one year workmanship warranty. The areas that will need focused on are as follows.
- What type of flooring is down now?
- How many layers of flooring are down now? (You can remove a heat vent cover if available to see the layers)
- Is the subfloor concrete or wood? (Wood subfloors will need underlayment and concrete floors will need to be prepped)
- What type of base trim is down, and does it meet other areas that may make the trim a different height when new flooring is installed?
- Are there appliances, commodes, or pedestal sinks in the areas to install?
- What type of flooring will be meeting the vinyl in transitions?
- Will the doors and appliances clear the new height of the floor? (Exterior metal doors cannot be easily trimmed down)
If all of the above items are addressed prior to installation, your project will run smoothly.
Make sure you receive the care and warranty information for the exact flooring you have purchased. The maintenance is crucial in the longevity and warranty of your floor. Make sure any table and chair legs have the proper protection so that they are not abrasive to your floor’s wear layer. Follow the proper cleaning guidelines and use only chemicals recommended by the manufacturer.
Shannon Hill is Vice President of Utmost Renovations and is an expert in all Floor Covering areas including Carpeting, Vinyl, Laminate, Hardwood, and Ceramic.
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